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| SYLPAULJOYCE Corporation head and SYLPAULJOYCE Golf Cup chief organizer Charles Solano (4th from left) with the top winners and (inset) celebrity players of the 9th SYLPAULJOYCE Golf Cup (Image Source: Manila Standard/SYLPAULJOYCE Corporation) |
Approaching its tenth year, the SYLPAULJOYCE Golf Cup continues to thrive, evolving into a major event that seamlessly blends sports, entertainment, and philanthropy. Since its inception in 2013, this tournament has become a hallmark of the local golfing community, drawing celebrities, businessmen, media personalities, and friends to the fairways. Organized by SYLPAULJOYCE Corporation as part of its corporate social responsibility initiatives, the event showcases the company’s commitment to both golf and community service.
“The SYLPAULJOYCE Golf Cup is more than just a tournament; it’s a platform to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children in need,” said SYLPAULJOYCE Corporation head and SYLPAULJOYCE Golf Cup chief organizer Charles Solano. SYLPAULJOYCE Group of companies include interest in the tourism industry, furniture, and real estate. Before discovering the beauty and complexity of golf, Solano emphasized, “Our company has always been dedicated to helping those in need, and this commitment continued throughout the years, especially during the pandemic.”
This year’s tournament will support two remarkable initiatives: the Growing Early Minds Therapy Center, which provides essential therapeutic services to children with developmental needs, and Ronnie Liang’s Project Ngiti, dedicated to helping children with lip and cleft palate conditions. The Growing Early Minds Therapy Center plays a crucial role in the community, offering early intervention and therapy services to children with autism, speech and language delays, and other developmental challenges. Meanwhile, Project Ngiti, led by renowned singer Ronnie Liang, focuses on assisting children with lip and cleft palate, aiming to improve their health and smiles. Proceeds from this year’s golf cup will help both organizations expand their programs and reach more children in need. “We are deeply grateful to SYLPAULJOYCE and all the participants for their generosity,” said Growing Early Minds Therapy Center Director Dr. Maria Santos. Liang echoed this sentiment, stating, “Project Ngiti is committed to restoring smiles and improving the lives of children, and we are thankful for the support that makes our work possible.”
The 9th edition of the SYLPAULJOYCE Golf Cup, held last June 7, 2024 at the Malarayat Golf and Country Club in Lipa City, saw a record number of 190 participants including celebrities from the entertainment, sports, media, and business sectors. In a social media post, singer Randy Santiago said, “First time to play Fivesome with my flightmates from Silverde Team. It was a very successful mounting of the 9th SYLPAULJOYCE Cup Golf Tournament. The organizers had to accommodate the many players who were there to support Charles and Lorena Solano and their families. Many business associates, friends, and celebrities came and played to show their love." “Played the golf game of my life today. On a course that I absolutely adore! I want to congratulate all the other winners but especially our Tournament Host, @sylpauljoycefurniture, for the success of their 9th SYLPAULJOYCE Golf Cup! Thank you, Charles Solano, for being such a great host,” said singer-actor Dingdong Avanzado. The awarding ceremonies that ensued at the Solano Hotel offered sumptuous dinner, entertainment by guests players and performers, raffles, and giveaways for everyone.
Avanzado emerged victorious in the celebrity edition with a net score of 69, achieved from a gross of 79. Abe Avena secured the low gross title with a remarkable three-under-par 69. De Castro claimed the low net trophy with a net 69 from a gross of 75 while Avanzado triumphed in the celebrity division with his net 69 from a gross of 79. In the men’s division, Fred Follosco clinched the Class A title by defeating Dan Baquiran in a countback with both finishing at 69. Ochie Tuazon’s 70 earned him a narrow one-stroke victory over Robert Tajonera in Class B while Ven Viñas edged out Benson So by one stroke, finishing with a 72 in Class C. In the ladies’ division, Sarah Cruz edged out Patricia Hizon for the crown via a countback with both turning in 71s. Hizon also won two additional awards: the ladies’ celebrity winner and the longest drive in the special contests. Jong Arcano bagged trophies for both the most accurate drive and the nearest pin.
